Senior Project Manager in Poole

Fortress Recruit is now looking for a Senior Project Manager on behalf of a well-established Defence engineering business, based out of their site in Poole. This is a key delivery role responsible for leading highly complex development programmes for strategically important customers. You'll take ownership of projects through the full design lifecycle, from development and qualification through to production and delivery, operating within a fast-paced environment where customer demands, technical challenges and programme priorities evolve quickly. This is not a traditional corporate Project Manager role. We're looking for a dynamic, hands-on individual who can work across engineering, operations and commercial teams, challenge assumptions, make informed decisions and drive programmes forward.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Leading complex new product development programmes from design through qualification and into production
• Taking ownership of project scope, change management and change control in response to evolving customer requirements
• Managing demanding delivery schedules and contractual obligations within a highly regulated defence environment
• Acting as the primary customer interface, building strong relationships and managing expectations throughout delivery
• Planning, monitoring and controlling project costs, schedules, risks and milestones
• Providing accurate project reporting, forecasting and governance updates to internal and external stakeholders
• Coordinating cross-functional teams to ensure technical, commercial and contractual requirements are achieved
• Supporting continuous improvement across project delivery, reporting and PMO processes
• Mentoring junior project management colleagues

To be considered for this role, you'll have:

• APM qualification or equivalent Project Management certification
• 5+ years' project management experience within a technical, engineering or defence environment
• Experience delivering complex NRE, new product development or bespoke manufacturing projects through the full design lifecycle
• Strong capability in change management, change control and stakeholder management
• Commercial awareness and confidence managing customer-facing programmes
• A driven, autonomous approach with strong analytical skills and an inquisitive mindset
• The ability to make informed decisions, take ownership and operate effectively in a fast-moving environment
• Degree, HND or equivalent technical qualification (desirable)

This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing defence business delivering critical programmes that support UK defence and national security. You'll gain exposure across the wider organisation, working closely with engineering, operations, commercial and senior leadership teams while taking full ownership of projects. The role is based on-site in Poole with some flexible working, offering a competitive salary alongside further training and development opportunity. Eligibility for SC Clearance is essential (5 years' UK residency without visa or sponsorship requirement).

For a confidential conversation or to request a full job description, please send your full CV to Becki.